Simon’s ielts writing task 2

The second negative:
cameras instead of police officers 
5. 
Explain more:
if cameras replace police, we will not feel safer 
And here's my 5-sentence paragraph using the ideas above: 
There are two main reasons why people might disapprove of the use of video cameras in public 
places. The first objection is that these cameras invade our privacy, in the sense that we are 
constantly being watched by the authorities or by private security firms. Many people find this 
intrusive and feel that the recording of their movements is a form of state control that curtails their 
individual freedom. The second argument against the proliferation of CCTV cameras is that they are 
being used as an alternative to police officers patrolling the streets. If this is indeed happening, then it 
is unlikely that members of the public will feel safer. 
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Wednesday, September 27, 2017 
IELTS Writing Task 2: CCTV essay 
Here's another band 9 sample answer. 
In many cities the use of video cameras in public places is being increased in order to reduce 
crime, but some people believe that these measures restrict our individual freedom.
Do the benefits of increased security outweigh the drawbacks?
It is true that video surveillance has become commonplace in many cities in recent years. While I 
understand that critics may see this as an invasion of privacy, I believe that the benefits do outweigh 
the drawbacks. 
There are two main reasons why people might disapprove of the use of video cameras in public 
places. The first objection is that these cameras invade our privacy, in the sense that we are 
constantly being watched by the authorities or by private security firms. Many people find this 
intrusive and feel that the recording of their movements is a form of state control that curtails their 
individual freedom. The second argument against the proliferation of CCTV cameras is that they are 
being used as an alternative to police officers patrolling the streets. If this is indeed happening, then it 
is unlikely that members of the public will feel safer. 
In spite of the drawbacks mentioned above, I believe that the use of video cameras to monitor public 
areas is a positive measure. The key objective of video surveillance is to deter criminals and to 
prevent crime. For example, petty criminals like shoplifters and pickpockets are less likely to operate 
in parts of cities where they know that they are being watched. At the same time, when crimes are 
committed, the police can use video evidence to catch and prosecute offenders. Therefore, in my 
view, video cameras offer valuable support to police officers, and they make cities safer for 
inhabitants, workers and visitors alike. 
In conclusion, it seems to me that we gain more than we lose from the enhanced security that CCTV 
cameras bring to our cities. 
(275 words)